To the Judges

Bird and Bear Stamp entries up for review

By Sandra Olivetti Martin

This year’s Maryland migratory bird stamp and bear stamp hunt bagged 23 entries. Their images are judged this weekend as part of the 23rd Annual Friends of Patuxent Wildlife Art Show and Sale at the National Wildlife Visitor Center in Laurel.
Judging takes three rounds in each competition starting with the bird stamp followed by the bear stamp.
All the entries are on display, and artists have been invited.
Judges work against the background of a larger wildlife art show and sale, with three dozen nationally recognized wildlife artists, artisans and crafters showing their work from 10:30am to 4:30pm. The stamps go on sale to hunters and art collectors later in the year through Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ online store.
At the same time, Maryland lawmakers are deciding how much hunters will pay for the 2012 stamps — and the privilege of using them in the field.